The Perfect Bouquet

How a $20 Bouquet Made Our Elopement Unforgettable

Big Love, Small Budget

You don’t need a five-figure floral budget to make your wedding unforgettable. Trust me—I’m speaking from experience.

When my wife and I eloped, we skipped the fancy florist and headed straight to Trader Joe’s. Twenty bucks later, we walked out with a bouquet that was vibrant, photogenic, and full of personality. It wasn’t wrapped in silk or flown in from Holland, but it was perfect. It matched the joy of the day, looked great in every photo, and—best of all—didn’t come with a credit card hangover.

After the ceremony, we gave the bouquet to a little girl near the Metro Station at Dupont Circle. Her eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning. That simple act turned a beautiful moment into a shared memory, and honestly, it felt like the perfect way to start our marriage: with generosity, spontaneity, and a little bit of Trader Joe’s magic.

Here’s the truth—marriage is a life-changing event, but it doesn’t have to be a budget-breaking one. You don’t need a ballroom, a 12-piece band, or a cake taller than your cousin Greg. What you do need is love, intention, and a celebration that feels true to you.

That’s where Juniper Flats Ministry comes in. I offer special elopement packages called the Ever After Express—designed for couples who want to skip the stress and get straight to the good stuff. Whether it’s a mountaintop vow exchange, a city hall “I do,” or a backyard ceremony with your dog as the ring bearer, I’ll help you make it meaningful, memorable, and totally you.

So if you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s big on heart and light on hassle, let’s talk. Because sometimes, the perfect bouquet costs twenty bucks—and the perfect marriage starts with a little less planning and a lot more love.

Ready to ride the Ever After Express? Reach out to Benny Raskin at Juniper Flats Ministry and let’s make magic happen.